In the quietude of 2020's pandemic, with its seemingly endless lockdowns, I found myself embarking on a journey that would redefine my relationship with both my camera and the world around me. Each morning, as I stepped out into the chilly, grey embrace of Toronto, I was armed with nothing but my camera and a curious mind. What was there to capture in such times, I pondered. The answer, it turned out, was anything and everything. As I began to document the simplicity of the every day—a dewdrop poised on a leaf, the shadow play on a barren street—I stumbled upon a profound discovery. This daily ritual of capturing the mundane yet beautiful aspects of life wasn't just photography; it was my newfound practice of mindfulness. Nothing anchored me more firmly in the now than observing my surroundings through the lens, noting how the light danced with objects, and crafting the perfect frame to encapsulate the moment. It was a revelation: everyday photography, with its power to soothe the mind and uplift the spirit, could be a beacon of hope for anyone grappling with anxiety or depression. In my heart, I believe that the art of photography is a gift—one that everyone should have the opportunity to experience.
Below are some of the intersections between photography and mindfulness practice that I discovered for myself.
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I've always lived in the country (rural Oklahoma) and this is interesting to me.... something I've never seen in real life! It's quite stately.
Presence and Focus: In photography, you're zeroing in on your subject, the lighting, the composition—every detail matters. It's like mindfulness, where you focus on the present moment, setting aside distractions. Both require you to be fully engaged with what's in front of you, whether it's through a camera lens or your own eyes.
Seeing Beyond the Surface: Photography teaches you to look beyond the obvious, to find beauty or interest in unexpected places. Similarly, mindfulness encourages a deeper awareness of your surroundings, thoughts, and feelings, helping you see beyond surface-level perceptions.
Patience and Waiting for the Right Moment: Ever waited for that perfect lighting for a shot? Photography often involves patience, waiting for the right moment to capture. Mindfulness also cultivates patience, teaching us to wait and observe our experiences without rushing to judgment or action.
Creativity and Exploration: With photography, you're always exploring new angles, settings, and techniques to express your vision. Mindfulness fosters a similar openness to exploration, encouraging curiosity about our inner and outer worlds without preconceived notions.
Acceptance and Letting Go: Not every photo turns out as planned, and that's okay. Photography teaches acceptance of what is, learning from the shots that don't work out. Mindfulness also teaches acceptance, acknowledging our thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them, letting them go with grace.
Connection and Empathy: Through the lens, photographers often capture emotions, telling stories that foster empathy and connection. Mindfulness practice enhances empathy, making us more attuned to the feelings of others and our environment, promoting a deeper connection to the world around us.
The Art of Seeing: At its core, photography is about seeing—really seeing what's in front of you. Mindfulness enhances this ability, sharpening your perceptions and allowing you to notice nuances and details you might otherwise miss.
Incorporating mindfulness into your photography can not only improve your shots by making you more attuned to the subtleties of your environment and subject but also enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the process. It's a beautiful synergy, blending the art of seeing with the art of being present.
